CPP-115

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CPP-115

CPP-115 or (R)-baclofen is a novel enzyme inhibitor developed by Catalyst Pharmaceuticals for the treatment of cocaine addiction. It is a structural analog of the antispasmodic medication baclofen.

History

CPP-115 was developed by Richard B. Silverman, the same chemist who developed pregabalin (Lyrica), a medication used to treat epilepsy, neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, and generalized anxiety disorder.

Mechanism of Action

CPP-115 works by inhibiting an enzyme called glutamate decarboxylase (GAD), which is responsible for the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. By inhibiting GAD, CPP-115 increases the concentration of GABA in the brain, which can help to reduce the cravings associated with cocaine addiction.

Clinical Trials

In preclinical trials, CPP-115 was found to be 200 times more potent than baclofen in suppressing cocaine self-administration in rodents. It also showed a significantly reduced side effect profile compared to baclofen, with fewer effects on motor function.

As of 2021, CPP-115 is in Phase II clinical trials for the treatment of cocaine addiction.

Potential Applications

In addition to its potential use in treating cocaine addiction, CPP-115 may also have applications in the treatment of other substance use disorders, including alcohol addiction and opioid addiction. It may also be useful in treating other conditions associated with GABA deficiency, such as epilepsy and spasticity.

See Also

• Baclofen
• Catalyst Pharmaceuticals
• Glutamate decarboxylase
• Gamma-aminobutyric acid